Thailand Laws: Strange Things to get arrested for in Thailand

In Thailand there are some unique laws that you should be aware of. If you are moving or visiting Thailand you may want to watch this episode.
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[@neilandsuzannetravels]

Was given a Buddha statue by Thai friends when we left Thailand. They sell them at all the tourist markets. Drove from Chiang Mai to Phuket with Aussie flags and stickers on our car. Stopped by police checkpoints many times. They used them to identify our country of origin. Obviously the law is applied selectively.

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

Flag stickers aren't an issue and no one is going to give you trouble for them, whether it's a Thai car or if you're an overlander with a foreign car driving around Thailand. Officially the latter requires a permit with guide (sometimes no guide is needed) but some borders are still lax in enforcing this. I wonder what happens if a police officer wants to fine you for not having a permit despite customs letting you through? This law does NOT apply to Lao, Malaysian or Singaporean vehicles. It also doesn't apply to Cambodian vehicles driving in the provinces they entered though in practice, except for one or two border crossings, the rest don't enforce this on Cambodian vehicles at all. For Burmese registrations, only travel within the border district is permitted, while further travel requires a guide and permit and even a police escort for larger groups.

[@mantan9400]

I took lots of pictures of Buddha's in Thailand for memories. I am fasinated by Thai culture. Thai food in Thailand is the most delicious food I have ever tasted.

[@wxmath]

Another awesome, informative video. You do great work. Thank you!

[@mapsbolt3663]

Subscribed! Thanks for all the great info!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thanks for the sub!

[@jklmnoqr]

Thank you for covering laws. The content is very interesting and necessary to know.😊

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad you like them!

[@sukhothaiinterlaw]

This is so helpful, thank you!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad it was helpful!

[@trailrunningexperience496]

I was luckily warned on the commando rule during a trail run by a nice cop on the pilgrims trail. Saw him the next day at the same spot and flashed him my superman boxers.

[@stevens818]

Awesome Video Tony and glad you mentioned the International Drivers Permit. I’d add, don’t buy one online as they aren’t valid and in the US only AAA is Authorized to issue them. I’ll also say, it’s not “if” you get stopped at a check point, you will, so make sure you have your license and if you have travel insurance on your visit make sure they cover medical from motorcycle accidents and a lot don’t or have an engine size limit.

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

Lol. You won't get stopped unless you're riding a motorcycle in Phuket or Pattaya. The Thai police are notoriously lazy and rarely enforce any laws.

[@randyc754]

Great info!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you for watching! 🇹🇭😊

[@johnnielson4341]

3:14 The reason for the law against stepping on the currency is that all Thai currency has a picture of the King and you can't disrespect the King. Its also illegal to disfigure the money, for the same reason. Don't write on the currenct.

[@kpgrubb1]

When you buy a condo, you don't own any part of the building. You only own the space, from the paint on the wall inward.

[@goofballbiscuits3647]

That's good to know! It's usually "drywall in" for the US. Does that affect shelving, wall decor, etc?

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

Thailand has many laws and little enforcement.

[@up2me967]

Thank God. Humans should be free!

[@reggiesmith5909]

Good information sir

[@patnewman1]

I live by the mantra of, “Their country, their rules”. Be respectful.

[@DreamofThailand19000]

Thank you 👍

[@up2me967]

Unckle tom. Yes,assa I'll accept every thing you say massa.

[@robertmadea9229]

True. It also should be followed by visitors in Europe. Not only by Europeans somewhere

[@sverrearnes7769]

Good adices, but -- it is smart to also write the advices. We remember better then. I'm planning visiting Thailand this fall, wishing to stay couple of months. Have to check if I need any kind of visa.

[@krisalasky6897]

Wow!! I would have definately flown our Aussie flag on Australia day. Thanks for the heads up.

[@OneLifeTwoLive]

There’s probably exceptions but I’ve never experienced any such problems in over 20 years.

[@DrJohnPollard]

It's good, I like your presentation.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you very much

[@nathanielwhitt2670]

That explains why i never heard anything bad about Thailand lol

[@DominanteMegaLit]

Yesss!!! :) :) :) Invaluable info! Don't get yourselves in trouble, people!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Exactly!!

[@cstephen98]

I assume that Thai money has the picture of the King on it so that law makes sense. A gun followup video to this would be why and how these laws came to be. I'd be willing to bet that at some time in the past there were protests where people stamped on the currency and therefore the Ruler's face, sort of like the flag burning laws in the US.

[@Cheepchipsable]

Yes it's about respect for the royal family, and it applies to all pictures of them anywhere. Apparently they play the national anthem twice a day and you are expected to stand, but I don't think it warrants a fine. Thais have a long history of OTT respect for the royal family, so nothing to do with any protest. It's part of the culture to not bad mouth anyone, even if they build you a house that falls down. There is an old story where a child of the royal family drowned because non-royals were forbidden from touching them. Also don't touch their heads or sit next to a monk if you are female, or hand a monk anything if you are female. Women should attempt to stand a few feet away from monks. Ironically if the Thais were to say bad things about people, the first people would be foreigners, 🤣.

[@richardjonesjr8422]

The 120 card law is to discourage illegal casinos. They like to use multi-deck shoots to speed up the game and prevent trick shuffles.

[@mds525700]

It's illegal to drive without a shirt in my home state of Michigan as well. I imagine it's the law in other states as well.

[@mangostickyrice555]

Thumbs up 👍 Tony

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@mantan9400]

Wow I have been to Thailand a few times and love it there. I have a few Thailand frineds in the States, and they are the best people to be nieghbors with. I do not know anyone who has any complaints about Thailand. I wish i had the funds to live in Thailand with my children so they can go to school in Thailand.

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

Its illegal to sell alcohol AFTER midnight. Its not 2am, its 12am

[@genuinsanity]

The shirt law got some guy in BIG trouble . Smuggled thousands of ecstasy tabs in...no trouble ...his connection was late ( because of course they would ) so he takes a pill. Wanders around a BKK park ..pulls his shirt off...cops come...one thing lads to another . Cops find stash....now doing hard time in Bang Kwang....break one law at a time. If you really have to.

[@johnlowell5905]

My friend's pants split in the seam on the grounds of Wat Yai in Sukhothai (very important temple). He had no underwear on. Luckily, the worst outcome was several nuns bursting out in laughter at him.

[@TheNarrowGate]

😂🤣

[@wezza60]

In addition to carrying a valid drivers or riders licence, you also need to carry an IDP that is endorsed with everything on my Australian Licence, Car, Motorcycle, Semi trailer etc.

[@seanrrichards]

And the big one do not spray-paint graffiti on an ancient city wall in Chiang Mai. As a canadian I am so sorry for that incident!! Just arrived in Chiang mai!!

[@AlexVergo764]

I would think not spray-painting graffiti in someone else's country would be a no-brainer for you special needs.

[@MrMontana169]

Any type of gambling is highly illegal in Thailand so is prostitution and the list goes on but it still goes on every where you look

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

Prostitution seems to be accepted/tolerated, gambling is not (except horse racing and the lottery).

[@Vagas2012]

Hi Tony. We finally made it to Chiang Mai. Just off topic. I have an appointment with Alice @ Indigo tomorrow morning to look at some properties for a 1 yr lease. I'm having a problem locating her office on the Grab app. Any advice on how to find her office. Maybe a major location next to her office if so, what would be the location? Thanks

[@TheNarrowGate]

Use Meechok Plaza as your destination. ;)

[@daytriker]

The reason it is illegal to go commando is to protect emergency workers who have to provide aid after you are in an accident. Nothing quite like trying to put band aids on bloody genitalia that have road rash. :)

[@kevinp8108]

You can't step on Thai money because the King's image is on the currency.

[@anna_m59]

And why we would step on money ?

[@kevinp8108]

@@anna_m59 - don't tell me you've never done this before??? Do you remember when you're holding money or a piece of paper and there is a gust of wind, and that object goes flying away? You chase it and your first instinct before it flies away even faster is to step on it!

[@anna_m59]

@@kevinp8108 no I never did. I guess I am the credit card generation. Usually I don’t carry Cash which caused problem a few times.

[@argon5806]

I carry a photo of Visa also you can get a ticket for riding a motorbike with no shirt and it is not looked good upon to be in public without a shirt on pools and beaches ok

[@briandumont7272]

As far as carrying the passport, I have one of those PackSafe man purses, so that shouldn't be an issue. The rest are pretty easy.

[@senianns9522]

Copies will be accepted! I have a copy of main page and visa page in both my car and my motor scooter at all times! * never been asked for my passport in 38 years of living here!

[@sandramore7021]

Could you please tell me what visa you have to allow you to live here? I've got a non b that I want to exchange but I don't know which one to choose. I'm 59.

[@TheNarrowGate]

You need to get on a retirement visa. Those are available for ages 50 and up. There are some financial requirements though.

[@benjiashouse]

Do I have to have a motorcycle license for a moped or vespa?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Yes

[@pmj50]

i think you need a “ motorcycle license” over a certain “CC” size, under that size you only need a driver’s license. please clarify.

[@TheNarrowGate]

If it is a motorcycle, you need a license. Period.

[@alexanderstamov2237]

When you speak of license for a motorcycle does that cover also scooters?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Yes

[@alexanderstamov2237]

@@TheNarrowGate Ouch :) that hurt, but thanks! :D

[@175ahc]

No underware came about due to accidents from what I understand. They do not want to see the family jewels in the ER if they need to remove your pants or shorts.

[@vitaly244]

I have never worn trunks under my shorts in Thailand🇹🇭What a nice surprise. I deserved to put in local jail for sure. 😂

[@TheNarrowGate]

😂

[@jerrypcman]

I know it's not the video about the CT125 but did ya know they make a 150-180cc big bore kit and the bikes and kits are all made in thailand

[@TheNarrowGate]

Yes, but I heard it may effect the longevity of the engine.

[@jerrypcman]

@@TheNarrowGate yeah unless you get the kit with oil cooler system that goes through the head. I will have to wait for warranty to expire. I let ya know

[@laurence9695]

The rule of carrying ID and your visa apply in most countries. In France with so many illegal migrants, the documents are checked often in the big cities. If you dont fit the look of the locals.

[@musings2134]

Do people fly drones over there without permit? How common is it?

[@TheNarrowGate]

I’m not sure. They are very easy to get.

[@musings2134]

@@TheNarrowGate you can't get the permits unless you are in Thailand. It could take anywhere between 3 days to 2 weeks. So if you are on a short trip. You probably might never get it.

[@titantitan2851]

International Drivers Permit is not valid after 30 DAYS in Thailand (even tho I had a12 month ID Permit). I had to get a Thai licence as I wanted to retire there. Info from Thailand Immigration office.

[@rutornnopakun7198]

I don't think there is a law that prohibits speaking any language other than Thai through a microphone and a loud speaker, otherwise all international school teachers in Thailand would have been arrested! I have never heard of that law. People do it all the time and no one is penalized for it. This must have been misunderstood.

[@DreamofThailand19000]

As a Thai, I have never heard about that either.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Section 7 of a 1950 law on sound-amplifying devices bans speaking “any language other than Thai” into a microphone. Violation is punishable by a month in prison. Concerts, religious ceremonies and state events are exempt.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Look it up

[@adglennon]

Not to mention every Karaoke bar would constantly be in violation!

[@rutornnopakun7198]

@@TheNarrowGate You're right, there is such a law. It was enacted during the administration of Field Marshall Plaek Phibulsongkram, who was Prime Minister in 1950. (By the way, the law only applies to the use of sound-amplifying devices to communicate one's view to the public in public places.) That Prime Minister was an extreme nationalist who modeled himself after Italy's Benito Mussolini and who liked to control all aspects of life of Thai citizens at that time. Obviously, it is such an out-of-date and nonsensical law that no one cares to use it nowadays!

[@dsf6045]

all countries have ancient laws that havent been used in ages but havent been taken off the statute book yet the general rule of thumb for thailand as a visitor (and for every other country) is dont behave like a dickhead

[@loveulez]

Not all countries are ancient

[@arthurzengeler8296]

I can't imagine going to the beach, and having to take your visa and passport. If you go swimming, you would have to leave it someplace, if you didn't drive a car.

[@flyhighseeall8271]

Do you still need to bring a passport when going to swim in the hotel resort beach ?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Technically, you need it on you or with you at all times.

[@hagakuru]

Technically that is incorrect. You can have a paper copy of it, or have photos of it on your phone. This was clarified by the RTP about 10 years ago. If they want to further scrutinize your passport, then you have to be able to produce it from your hotel/condo/room etc at that time. @@TheNarrowGate

[@ma3stro681]

No. I never got asked once by police to see my passport. In fact, I only got stopped once on my moped for a regulation license check in 2 months …

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

​@@TheNarrowGaterofl

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

Not unless you want to have to deal with a wet passport and all the difficulty that entails.

[@nanwithabackpack]

Hi I arrived back yesterday give me a shout if you fancy catching up. 😃

[@tc2425]

Freebaĺling to BKK

[@davidnour6963]

Regarding the law requiring foreigners to carry their passport: what about carrying my Thai Elite Visa membership card (with expiry date)?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Not sure on that one.

[@ThePatriot-gm1fg]

Don't worry about carrying your passport. Just a photocopy is fine. They have computers now.

[@benjiashouse]

Does a moped or vespa have a requirement for a motorcycle license?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Absolutely

[@ma3stro681]

Only for farang … 😅

[@maninthecab]

If it has two wheels and an engine , it's a motorcycle , although the the seven-year -old child carrying three friends probably doesn't have a licence - then again , they would quickly hear where checkpoints are being set up and avoid them .

[@Dolphinsfan1981]

What happens if you overstay ?

[@TheNarrowGate]

You will be arrested. 😬

[@ivegotsomethingtosay596]

Can you have picture of passport/visa on phone?

[@TheNarrowGate]

We do that but per the law you need your passport on you.

[@senianns9522]

Correct but normally they are so surprised you can identify yourself they don't get difficult!

[@dustingunderson3593]

Search strange laws in the US. Isnt much different.

[@jbrice2010]

So you're saying it's ok to keep a few cards up your sleeve, just not too many. 🤣🤣

[@KeepingItRealBro]

As a comparison, criminals in New Jersey aren't allowed to wear bulletproof vests. And don't forget that women have to get pernission from their husbands before tooth replacement in Vermont. 🙄

[@DreamofThailand19000]

I never heard about such a laws that other languages are prohibited on a microphone or a lond speaker. I will ask my Thai cousin who is a lawyer.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Section 7 of a 1950 law on sound-amplifying devices bans speaking “any language other than Thai” into a microphone. Violation is punishable by a month in prison. Concerts, religious ceremonies and state events are exempt.

[@brucesnyder690]

Nobody scams me here.

[@ramsoncole4605]

so the law about speaking thai into a loudspeaker...how does that affect a band lets say, singing eagles songs...do they have to be sung in thai?

[@TheNarrowGate]

It’s ignored. It will never be enforced.

[@stackfire9601]

The old saying that Mom told me.... Don't get in a wreck with DIRTY or No underwear on 😂

[@TheNarrowGate]

😂🤣

[@louis20122]

How much are these fines? Any jail time?

[@TheNarrowGate]

They vary. You can do a google search to find the details on the penalty.

[@jeff5001]

Ask the arresting officer what the fine is. It will often be a few hundred baht that can be paid on the spot.

[@Marcus_Lite]

Serious question, do I have to wear underwear under my swim shorts?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Not unless your shorts are see-through.

[@Wellch]

Heard that it is illegal to eat a sandwich in public, but there must be more to the story than just that.

[@TheNarrowGate]

I haven’t heard that one before. I’ll have to look that one up. :-)

[@neiltruslove7520]

I have a suitcase with the uk flag on it and the thai flag is that ok

[@TheNarrowGate]

Yes 👍

[@neiltruslove7520]

@@TheNarrowGate thanks

[@grahamfraser5938]

Going Commando in Australia means nude sunbathing

[@kevinreist7718]

Going commando is normal in a swim suit. Do they allow that? Can you sing in English at a Karaoke bar? That's clearly a different language over a loudspeaker. I've also heard that sex toys are illegal in Thailand, can you confirm?

[@TheNarrowGate]

That is true.

[@cb2000a]

Do NOT say bad things about the royal family in Thailand....ever.

[@michaeljcarneyjr.6187]

the underwear law is for women to make sure they are wearing bras in public.

[@victoriatyson-kl2sw]

what if u are an american rapper?

[@imperialkhmer6146]

Thailand looks like a civilized country compare to the US. 😂

[@curtpui]

Hardly. I have lives here many years and can say there are many good things but many bad as well.

[@loveulez]

It is

[@Thailand-mt9op]

Can you vape I know it’s illegal but I bekievevpeeoplevusingbyhem

[@TheNarrowGate]

I have seen people using them, but it is illegal so I would not suggest doing it in Thailand.

[@DasentandLera]

How would their know you don’t have underwear?

[@TheNarrowGate]

We talked about that on the video.

[@DasentandLera]

For the ladies, yes but men no.. it was just a smiling comment. Thx for responding

[@TheNarrowGate]

😀👍

[@TimBaze-ne7qu]

So u need underwear with swimming trunks lol

[@christianbrother4724]

I have a Buda tattoo.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Many tourists do as well.

[@loveulez]

Embarrassing

[@xodiac2020]

Weed can we smoke weed?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Of course

[@philipwalters5254]

I read they might back track and only medicinal weed

[@AVERAGEREVOLUTIONARY]

Just act like a decent human being.

[@johnjoe_247]

so , I can't do karaoke in Thailand ?

[@DreamofThailand19000]

I really doubt it!

[@orawancarlile6192]

Yes, you can do as long as you are considerate and respect everyone who lives around you not to disturb their sleep or children napping.

[@johnjoe_247]

@@orawancarlile6192 I am talking about in public like in Bangkok

[@orawancarlile6192]

@@johnjoe_247 Check with the City Hall if they have any regulations about it.

[@chilooftiz2311]

Hi , I’m trying to find that link about - BUY ME A COFFE - but I’m unsuccessful…. Have plans to visit Thailand 🇹🇭 in October an I’m in need maybe 🤔 of extra info ℹ️ due to the fact that this will be my first time in the country but I’ve been busing your knowledge in your videos to keep me informed an updated with the country, specially Chiang Mai which will be my destination for my two weeks vacation… hope to hear from you soon 🔜 , I’m willing to provide e-mail & phone 📱 which can be used for the WhatsApp to communicate for free as well . Take care , from Texas USA 🇺🇸

[@TheNarrowGate]

Hey there. www.buymeacoffee.com/NarrowGate/e/140609?from_page=home

[@pascalfo6014]

At the end mexico is better lol